Boxes For Moving: About Your Choices

By Monica Alberts

At some point in life, most people move. Whether it is a simple move down the street or clear across the country, we depend on boxes to help get our things there safely. Boxes for moving seem simple and are easily taken for granted, but without them, the moving process would be almost too daunting to be worth the reward.

Although all moving boxes have the same general purpose, to enclose a possession, not all boxes are created equal. So, how do you know which boxes are right for moving your items?

Many people do not realize that cardboard is not even a precise description of any specific material. Cardboard, as it is generally referred, is actually corrugated board. This board comes in different sizes and types, and each different type can handle a specific range of weight.

Single-wall, or c flute, as it sometimes referred to, is the most common type of cardboard. Approximately 90% of moving containers manufactured are of this type, and this is usually what people are referring to when they use the term cardboard. This single wall board has been tested withstand weights between 175 through 350 pounds. Therefore, this is the appropriate box type for most moving purposes of the average person. However, it is important to note that even though the boxes are rated to support that much weight, the average person may not be able to safely handle even half of that weight.

While in the moving process, you do come across an item that is over 200 pounds, you may be well advised to bump up to the next type of corrugated box, the double-wall, or c+f flute, type. In addition to the added security to your heavy items, these types of boxes also have inherently increased padding, which can more safely transport any delicate items, as well. This type of container would be excellent for kitchenware, such as glassware, dishes, and other heavy, though breakable, items.

Triple-wall corrugated cardboard is the last of the three types, and are generally not necessary for the general move. They have a total of seven layers of paper, and are usually only used when moving heavy industrial items or bulk commodities.

By now, you may have already determined the type of boxes that best fit your moving needs. In addition to the type, however, there are other important factors to consider before embarking on the boxing process. First of all, be careful to get the right size of box. Take into account how you plan on moving the boxes. Are you going to use a dolly, the help of another for team-lifting, and will you be encountering a lot of stairs in your move? Moreover, will you need to stack these boxes?

Moving is an inevitable part of life for most of us. If you are taking the time to box your items before your move, those items are probably very important to you. Therefore, choosing the correct boxes for moving is in your best interest. Understanding your needs and the different capabilities of available boxes will help ensure a pleasant experience. - 30331

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